Magic of Kyrgyz Winter

Private tour
Price
from $285
Availability
November – March
Duration
4 days
Tour type

Overview

Discover the magic of Kyrgyzstan in winter on this 4-day tour from Bishkek. Visit Ala Archa National Park, Burana Tower, and Issyk Kul Lake, enjoy horse riding, explore red canyons, and meet a local eagle hunter. A perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure.

Highlights

  • Snowy hike in Ala Archa National Park
  • Visit the Burana Tower
  • Horse riding in Chon Kemin Valley
  • Eagle hunting show in Bokonbaevo
  • Walk in Skazka & Ak Sai Canyons
  • See frozen waterfalls in Barskoon
  • Scenic drive along Issyk Kul Lake

Itinerary

Day 1. Bishkek (or airport) – Ala Archa National Park – Bishkek

Morning pick-up in Bishkek from your hotel or the airport. (Early check-in and rest after the flight can be arranged for additional payment if needed.)

Afterward, we’ll head to Ala Archa National Park, a stunning alpine gorge in the Tian Shan Mountains. This peaceful winter destination offers snow-covered slopes, spruce forests, and a crystal-clear mountain river. You can enjoy a short hike or simply breathe in the fresh mountain air and admire the scenery.

Later, we’ll return to Bishkek for a short city tour (if time allows), followed by dinner at a local restaurant and an overnight stay at the hotel.

Meals included: None
Accommodation: None

Day 2. Bishkek – Burana Tower – Chon Kemin Valley

After breakfast, we’ll drive to the Burana Tower, a UNESCO-protected historical site from the 11th century, located on the site of ancient Balasagun. Explore the small museum, climb to the top of the minaret, and see ancient stone carvings known as balbals scattered around the area.

Then, we’ll continue to Chon Kemin Valley, surrounded by mountains and evergreen forests. Lunch will be served at a local guesthouse. In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy horse riding through the snowy valley, a perfect way to experience Kyrgyz nature in winter.

Dinner and overnight in the guesthouse, or upgrade to a traditional yurt at Ala Kush Ethno Complex (if available).

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse or Yurt at Ala Kush Ethno Complex (optional upgrade)

Day 3. Chon Kemin – Ak Sai Canyon – Skazka Canyon – Tosor village

After breakfast, we’ll head towards the south shore of Issyk Kul Lake. Our first stop is Ak Sai Canyon, where we’ll hike to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the lake and the surrounding snowy peaks. The quiet beauty of Issyk Kul creates an unforgettable atmosphere.

Then we’ll stop in Bokonbaevo village to meet a local eagle hunter who will share the ancient art of eagle hunting and demonstrate his golden eagle in action.
Afterward, we’ll continue to the Skazka Canyon, known as “Fairy Tale Canyon” for its unusual red sandstone formations.

Short winter walk in the canyon, followed by an evening drive to Tosor village, located by the lakeshore. Dinner and overnight in a guesthouse by the lake.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Guesthouse by Issyk Kul Lake

Day 4. Tosor – Barskoon Gorge – Kok Moinok Canyon – Bishkek (or Airport)

After breakfast, we’ll drive to Barskoon Gorge, famous for its frozen waterfalls during the winter months. You can take a short walk to the icy cascade and enjoy the pristine winter silence.

Next, we’ll stop at Kok Moinok Canyon for photos and a short walk among the red cliffs before continuing to Bishkek. Upon arrival, dinner will be at a local restaurant.
After dinner, drop-off at your preferred location in Bishkek or directly at the airport.

Meals included: Breakfast
Accommodation: None (optional hotel booking before airport transfer)

Prices

285 USD 10 people
310 USD 8 people
370 USD 6 people
480 USD 4 people
760 USD 2 people
1415 USD 1 person

Price per person

Included

  • Accommodation – as per program (2 nights; double/twin rooms)
  • Meals – as per program (Breakfasts – 2, Lunches – 1, Dinners – 2)
  • Private transport services (during all the tour)
  • English speaking guide (during all the tour)
  • Horse riding in Chon Kemin(1-4 hours)
  • Horse instructor
  • Eagle hunting show
  • All entrance fees
  • Round-trip airport transfers

Excluded

  • Personal expenses
  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for driver and guide(optional)

Map

Additional info

Clothes & Equipment

You can bring everything you need, but remember that winter in Kyrgyzstan can get as cold as -20°C. Be prepared for sudden weather changes.

Recommended:

  • Warm gloves
  • Insulated boots
  • Thick coat and warm trousers
  • Thermal underwear
  • Multiple layers of clothing
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Swimwear (for hot springs or heated pools)
  • Small towel
Private tour

Tour Booking

285 USD 10 people
310 USD 8 people
370 USD 6 people
480 USD 4 people
760 USD 2 people
1415 USD 1 person

Price per person

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